The application window for the 20th annual Green Start Academy is open, and John Deere, Envu and Rain Bird encourage aspiring assistant superintendents to join the esteemed leadership and development program.
Now entering its fifth year at the Pinehurst Resort, GSA will once again partner with the three industry leaders. The program is designed to enhance and sharpen the skills of assistant superintendents, equipping them with essential knowledge to advance their careers. GSA remains committed to empowering these professionals to unlock their potential and succeed in the dynamic world of golf course management.
“The success of Green Start Academy alumni continues to speak for itself, and we’re proud to carry on this tradition with a new class of assistant superintendents,” John Deere market development and strategy global manager Kim Ehasz said. “We’re excited to welcome the 2025 class and play a role in shaping their journeys through the outstanding educational and networking opportunities this program offers.”
Participants will be able to immerse themselves in lectures and roundtable discussions conducted by some of the golf industry’s more respected figures. The program is designed to provide the best environment for assistant superintendents to impart essential knowledge and facilitate the sharing of industry best practices, with a clear focus on professional development.
“Envu is proud to support the Green Start Academy as it celebrates 20 years of advancing excellence in the golf course maintenance profession,” said Mark Schneid, the company’s head of North America commercial operations. “This program plays a vital role in helping to develop the next generation of talented superintendents by providing them with the knowledge, mentorship, and network they need to grow. We believe in investing in the future of our industry, and Green Start Academy continues to be a cornerstone in shaping that future."
The GSA program offers a distinct platform designed to guide participants toward both personal and professional growth by equipping them with the essential tools and training for success. It also fosters meaningful connections and helps strengthen bonds among industry leaders.
“This is one of my favorite weeks of the year” Rain Bird national sales manager Tony Whelan said. “Spending time with the mentors, our friends at John Deere and Envu at Pinehurst, the home of American golf. What could be better? Developing a program that helps prepare assistant superintendents from across the U.S. and Canada for their next role and seeing them building a network of peers and mentors.
"I know the golf course community’s future is bright and in good hands with the graduates of this program.”
The program is currently accepting applications through August 1. Those interested can apply for a spot in this year’s class on the Green Start Academy website.